This coastal town in Slovenia has narrow streets, 14th-century churches, and a 15th-century Venetian Fort. It's popular for swimming and windsurfing, with views of the Julian Alps.
Izola is a coastal town on Slovenia's Adriatic shoreline. Its medieval old town, with narrow winding streets and Venetian-style buildings, sits on what was once an island. You can explore the Church of St. Maurus, relax on pebble beaches, dine at seafood restaurants, and enjoy the calm coastal atmosphere. Izola is also a convenient starting point for discovering Slovenia's Istrian region.
Exploring Izola's Old Town
Izola's compact old town center consists of a maze of narrow streets and small squares. Many buildings date back to the Venetian period, when Izola was an important fishing port. As you walk, you'll pass colorful houses, small shops, and hidden courtyards. The 16th century Church of St. Maurus has a prominent bell tower offering views over the red-tiled roofs. Manzioli Square forms the heart of the old town, surrounded by historic buildings including the 15th century Manzioli Palace.
Beaches and Swimming
Izola has several beaches where you can swim and sunbathe. The main town beach, Svetilnik, sits at the tip of the peninsula near the lighthouse. Its pebbly shore slopes gently into the Adriatic. For a quieter spot, head to San Simon Beach about 1 km west of the old town. This long stretch of pebbles and concrete platforms has shady pine trees and views towards Italy. If you prefer sand, the small Simonov zaliv beach is your best option in Izola.
Marina and Water Activities
Izola's modern marina sits just south of the old town, with berths for hundreds of sailboats and yachts. The marina area makes for a nice walk to see the vessels. Several companies provide boat tours and rentals from here. You can take a cruise along the coast, go fishing, or sail to nearby Piran or Koper. Kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals are available if you want to explore the coastline independently.
Seafood and Local Cuisine
Izola's fishing tradition is reflected in its many seafood restaurants. You'll find eateries lining the harbor and old town streets, often with outdoor seating. Local specialties include grilled sardines, octopus salad, and seafood risotto. The Bujol tavern near the marina serves traditional Istrian dishes. Consider pairing your meal with Malvasia white wine from nearby vineyards. For a quick snack, you can get fried calamari or fish from casual spots along the waterfront promenade.
Museums and Culture
The Izola Maritime Museum, housed in the Palace of Manzioli, displays model ships, fishing equipment, and other nautical artifacts. Art lovers can visit the Insula Gallery, which shows works by local and international artists in a former church. During summer, Izola hosts various events including an open-air cinema festival and live music performances in the squares.
